EL PARQUE NACIONAL

NATIONAL PARK

Discover more about the Picos with this brief introduction to its history. We will also give you an insight to its flora, fauna, and places of interest.

HISTORY

To discover the origins of the Picos de Europa National Park we need to talk about Pedro Pidal, a great figure of the Spanish conservation movement in the 20th century. This Asturian based in Madrid was a deputy and a senator in the Spanish Courts. In 1905 and with the support of King Alfonso XIII, he created the Royal Reserves of Gredos and Picos de Europa, intended to protect the Hispanic mountain goat and the chamois, species with a threatened population due to hunting. Three years later, in 1908, he defended the right to respect the mating seasons of game animals for their preservation. After visiting Yellowstone (first National Park in the world), Yosemite, New York, and Canada to learn from their experiences, his efforts in nature conservation achieved its major goal in 1916 when the 1st Law of National Parks was adopted. On July 22, 1918, the first Spanish National Park was created (Covadonga Mountain) which only protected the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa (El Cornión).

It wasn’t until 1995 that the National Park was expanded, protecting the whole three massifs of the Picos and the sources of the rivers Sella, Cares, and Deva. It was at this point that the park was given its current name: Picos de Europa National Park. After its last expansion in 2015, the National Park measures 67 455 hectares. It is the second largest Park, after Sierra Nevada (86 208 hectares), of the fifteen that make up the National Parks Network in Spain.

The National Park belongs to three different regions of Spain (Principado de Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León) and to eleven municipalities. Three of these (Oseja de Sajambre, Posada de Valdeón, and Tresviso) are entirely within the National Park, which affects the special management of this protected area. It is practically the only Spanish National Park with an internal population, making it necessary for traditional activities to carry on as they have done for generations.

To discover the origins of the Picos de Europa National Park we need to talk about Pedro Pidal, a great figure of the Spanish conservation movement in the 20th century. This Asturian based in Madrid was a deputy and a senator in the Spanish Courts. In 1905 and with the support of King Alfonso XIII, he created the Royal Reserves of Gredos and Picos de Europa, intended to protect the Hispanic mountain goat and the chamois, species with a threatened population due to hunting. Three years later, in 1908, he defended the right to respect the mating seasons of game animals for their preservation. After visiting Yellowstone (first National Park in the world), Yosemite, New York, and Canada to learn from their experiences, his efforts in nature conservation achieved its major goal in 1916 when the 1st Law of National Parks was adopted. On July 22, 1918, the first Spanish National Park was created (Covadonga Mountain) which only protected the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa (El Cornión).

It wasn’t until 1995 that the National Park was expanded, protecting the whole three massifs of the Picos and the sources of the rivers Sella, Cares, and Deva. It was at this point that the park was given its current name: Picos de Europa National Park. After its last expansion in 2015, the National Park measures 67 455 hectares. It is the second largest Park, after Sierra Nevada (86 208 hectares), of the fifteen that make up the National Parks Network in Spain.

The National Park belongs to three different regions of Spain (Principado de Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León) and to eleven municipalities. Three of these (Oseja de Sajambre, Posada de Valdeón, and Tresviso) are entirely within the National Park, which affects the special management of this protected area. It is practically the only Spanish National Park with an internal population, making it necessary for traditional activities to carry on as they have done for generations.

To discover the origins of the Picos de Europa National Park we need to talk about Pedro Pidal, a great figure of the Spanish conservation movement in the 20th century. This Asturian based in Madrid was a deputy and a senator in the Spanish Courts. In 1905 and with the support of King Alfonso XIII, he created the Royal Reserves of Gredos and Picos de Europa, intended to protect the Hispanic mountain goat and the chamois, species with a threatened population due to hunting. Three years later, in 1908, he defended the right to respect the mating seasons of game animals for their preservation. After visiting Yellowstone (first National Park in the world), Yosemite, New York, and Canada to learn from their experiences, his efforts in nature conservation achieved its major goal in 1916 when the 1st Law of National Parks was adopted. On July 22, 1918, the first Spanish National Park was created (Covadonga Mountain) which only protected the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa (El Cornión).

It wasn’t until 1995 that the National Park was expanded, protecting the whole three massifs of the Picos and the sources of the rivers Sella, Cares, and Deva. It was at this point that the park was given its current name: Picos de Europa National Park. After its last expansion in 2015, the National Park measures 67 455 hectares. It is the second largest Park, after Sierra Nevada (86 208 hectares), of the fifteen that make up the National Parks Network in Spain.

The National Park belongs to three different regions of Spain (Principado de Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León) and to eleven municipalities. Three of these (Oseja de Sajambre, Posada de Valdeón, and Tresviso) are entirely within the National Park, which affects the special management of this protected area. It is practically the only Spanish National Park with an internal population, making it necessary for traditional activities to carry on as they have done for generations.

NATURE

The Picos de Europa are part of the Cantabrian mountain range. Its division into three different massifs (Western, Central, and Eastern) by deep valleys, leads to a large variation in altitudes providing diverse scenery such as immense woods, mountain pastures, and limestone rock formations. This varied landscape promotes a high biodiversity including the most characteristic and endangered species of the Cantabrian mountain range.

The Central Massif, the most abrupt of the three that make up the Park, is where you find Torrecerredo (the highest summit in Picos with 2 648 m), Naranjo de Bulnes or Urriellu (2 519 m), and Pico Tesorero (2 570 m). This last peak is where the borders of the three different provinces meet. The Western Massif covers the largest area and is where Peña Santa de Castilla (2 596 m), Peña Santa de Enol (2 486 m), and the Lakes of Covadonga are located. The Eastern Massif, smallest in area and lowest in altitude, offers more accessible peaks as well as the striking historical remains of past mining that highlight the difficulties of the old practices.

NATURE

The Picos de Europa are part of the Cantabrian mountain range. Its division into three different massifs (Western, Central, and Eastern) by deep valleys, leads to a large variation in altitudes providing diverse scenery such as immense woods, mountain pastures, and limestone rock formations. This varied landscape promotes a high biodiversity including the most characteristic and endangered species of the Cantabrian mountain range.

The Central Massif, the most abrupt of the three that make up the Park, is where you find Torrecerredo (the highest summit in Picos with 2 648 m), Naranjo de Bulnes or Urriellu (2 519 m), and Pico Tesorero (2 570 m). This last peak is where the borders of the three different provinces meet. The Western Massif covers the largest area and is where Peña Santa de Castilla (2 596 m), Peña Santa de Enol (2 486 m), and the Lakes of Covadonga are located. The Eastern Massif, smallest in area and lowest in altitude, offers more accessible peaks as well as the striking historical remains of past mining that highlight the difficulties of the old practices.

GEOLOGY

The formation of the Picos de Europa is related to the Hercynian and Alpide orogenies that occurred during the Carboniferous and the Tertiary periods, respectively. It was during the Carboniferous when the sedimentation of carbonates on a marine platform began, accumulating up to 1 000 metres of calcareous sediments that formed the limestone found in the Picos.

Glacial actions during the last two million years have played a key role in forming the current landscape in the Picos. Sink holes (jous) where lakes such as Enol and Ercina are found, moraines like the Llomba del Toro in Áliva, and extensive rock falls show the glacial impact in every corner of the National Park.

Karstification is another form of erosion of the calcareous massifs. The dissolving of the limestone by water leads to the erosion of both the surface and interior rock of the limestone massifs. These mountains are one of the most important karstic landscapes in the world, especially valued by national and international cavers that explore the depths of the massifs every season.

GEOLOGY

The formation of the Picos de Europa is related to the Hercynian and Alpide orogenies that occurred during the Carboniferous and the Tertiary periods, respectively. It was during the Carboniferous when the sedimentation of carbonates on a marine platform began, accumulating up to 1 000 metres of calcareous sediments that formed the limestone found in the Picos.

Glacial actions during the last two million years have played a key role in forming the current landscape in the Picos. Sink holes (jous) where lakes such as Enol and Ercina are found, moraines like the Llomba del Toro in Áliva, and extensive rock falls show the glacial impact in every corner of the National Park.

Karstification is another form of erosion of the calcareous massifs. The dissolving of the limestone by water leads to the erosion of both the surface and interior rock of the limestone massifs. These mountains are one of the most important karstic landscapes in the world, especially valued by national and international cavers that explore the depths of the massifs every season.

FLORA

The Catalogue of Flora in the National Park mentions 1 750 taxa, which represent 21% of the total Spanish vascular flora. Almost 15% of the total taxa are endemic. Only 8 are strictly from the Picos de Europa, but 86 are Cantabrian and 73 are Pyrenean-Cantabrian. The extensive beech, oak, or Cantabrian mixed forests are particularly outstanding, as well as the meadows that have been used as grazing lands for generations.

FAUNA

The great diversity of habitats in the National Park provides a wide range of fauna with species belonging to each and every level of the food chain. Bears, wolves, chamois, capercaillies, vultures, golden eagles, and most recently, bearded vultures (which are being reintroduced into the protected area) are just some of the fauna present in the Park.

Small carnivorous animals, a great number of forest birds, bats, fish, and a variety of amphibians and reptiles (including some native Iberian) provide a richness in fauna of great biological importance to the National Park.

PLACES OF INTEREST

There are many places that are attractive and historically interesting for tourists. You can find a selection of the ones that generate most interest in this section.

CARES GORGE

The Cares Gorge, also called the “Divine Gorge”, is one of the most famous walking routes in the Picos, and crosses between the provinces of León and Asturias. The walkway was built to allow maintenance of the water canal that runs the length of the Cares Gorge. The canal was built between 1916 and 1921 to carry water for the hydro scheme power station in Poncebos. As well as the spectacular landscape, the gorge has significant botanical and geological interest.

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION

ACCESS TO THE CARES GORGE AND THE BULNES FUNICULAR

During Easter and August, once available parking in Poncebos is full, vehicles must be parked in the Ovar parking, with 146 spaces, located 1.2 km from Poncebos. If this parking is full then parking is available in Llaneces (Arenas de Cabrales). There are bus services from both car parks to Poncebos (www.alsa.es).

There are four further villages in the National Park that can be accessed by car from Poncebos: Camarmeña, Tielve, Sotres and Tresviso.

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION

ACCESS TO THE CARES GORGE AND THE BULNES FUNICULAR

During Easter and August, once available parking in Poncebos is full, vehicles must be parked in the Ovar parking, with 146 spaces, located 1.2 km from Poncebos. If this parking is full then parking is available in Llaneces (Arenas de Cabrales). There are bus services from both car parks to Poncebos (www.alsa.es).

There are four further villages in the National Park that can be accessed by car from Poncebos: Camarmeña, Tielve, Sotres and Tresviso.

PONCEBOS (Asturias):If you come from Cantabria or Cangas de Onís, take the AS-114 to Arenas de Cabrales. In this village, take the AS-264, and drive for 5 km to Poncebos.

INFORMATION OF INTEREST

Take mountain footwear.

It is very important to take plenty of water and food. There’s no water available on the 12- kilometre walk, apart from in Poncebos and Caín, where you can find bars, restaurants, and hotels.

It’s recommended to use sunscreen and a cap in summer, since the tunnels are the only areas with some shade.

The walk is along cliffs with no side protection, and there is a risk of rock falls due to natural effects (rain, wind) or to animals grazing near the track. It is important to be alert, especially if the walk is done with children.

Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.

Riding mountain bikes is not allowed.

If you start the walk in Poncebos, you will find that the first 2 km are uphill. If you’re planning to only walk a part of the gorge, we suggest you start in Caín to avoid this uphill part and to walk the section with the tunnels, which is the most spectacular.

ITINERARY DESCRIPTION

ACCESS TO THE CARES GORGE AND THE BULNES FUNICULAR

During Easter and August, once available parking in Poncebos is full, vehicles must be parked in the Ovar parking, with 146 spaces, located 1.2 km from Poncebos. If this parking is full then parking is available in Llaneces (Arenas de Cabrales). There are bus services from both car parks to Poncebos (www.alsa.es).

There are four further villages in the National Park that can be accessed by car from Poncebos: Camarmeña, Tielve, Sotres and Tresviso.

PONCEBOS (Asturias):If you come from Cantabria or Cangas de Onís, take the AS-114 to Arenas de Cabrales. In this village, take the AS-264, and drive for 5 km to Poncebos.

INFORMATION OF INTEREST

Take mountain footwear.

It is very important to take plenty of water and food. There’s no water available on the 12- kilometre walk, apart from in Poncebos and Caín, where you can find bars, restaurants, and hotels.

It’s recommended to use sunscreen and a cap in summer, since the tunnels are the only areas with some shade.

The walk is along cliffs with no side protection, and there is a risk of rock falls due to natural effects (rain, wind) or to animals grazing near the track. It is important to be alert, especially if the walk is done with children.

Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.

Riding mountain bikes is not allowed.

If you start the walk in Poncebos, you will find that the first 2 km are uphill. If you’re planning to only walk a part of the gorge, we suggest you start in Caín to avoid this uphill part and to walk the section with the tunnels, which is the most spectacular.

RELATED PACKAGES

BIKE RENTAL AND 4X4 ROUTES

Months:

JFMAMJJASOND

At the S-cape Travel Turismo Activo office, in Arenas de Cabrales, you can hire different services and activities in the Picos de Europa. We will show you its scenery and gastronomy. We can also inform you about its culture and traditions.

BIKE RENTAL AND 4X4 ROUTES

Months:

JFMAMJJASOND

At the S-cape Travel Turismo Activo office, in Arenas de Cabrales, you can hire different services and activities in the Picos de Europa. We will show you its scenery and gastronomy. We can also inform you about its culture and traditions.

PICO URRIELLU

Naranjo de Bulnes (“Picu Urriellu” or “el Picu” in Asturian) is probably the most emblematic peak of the Picos de Europa. Despite not being the highest peak, it is well known for its monolithic silhouette, and is the most coveted peak for climbers visiting the area. It is located in the Central Massif of the National Park, in the Asturian county of Cabrales.

CLIMBING ROUTES

There are many climbing routes on the faces of Naranjo de Bulnes. This is a small selection of the most popular ones.

THE MARTÍNEZ DIRECT CLIMBING ROUTED INF. (IV+). 250 metres. SOUTH FACE. It is the easiest and safest route to access the summit of the “Picu”, which makes it the most frequented. The route was first climbed by brothers and guides Alfonso and Juan Tomás Martínez in 1944, while ascending with six of their clients. The belay points for this climb are used as the descent for the majority of routes on the Naranjo.

PIDAL-CAINEJO CLIMBING ROUTEMD INF. (V+). 350 metres. EAST FACE. It is one of the classics of the Naranjo and the rest of the Picos, and was in 1955 the first climbing route on the East Face of the Picu. The route follows limestone of excellent quality.

CEPEDA CLIMBING ROUTEMD INF. (V+). 350 metres. EAST FACE. It is one of the classics of the Naranjo and the rest of the Picos, and was in 1955 the first climbing route on the East Face of the Picu. The route follows limestone of excellent quality.

MARTÍNEZ SOMOANO CLIMBING ROUTEMD INF. (V+). 420 metres. EAST FACE. It was first climbed in 1974, and was the first route on the compact walls in the central part of the East Face of the Naranjo. This route heralded a new era of more difficult climbs on the Picu.

RABADÁ-NAVARRO CLIMBING ROUTEED INF. (6a). 750 metres. WEST FACE. This climbing route is, without a doubt, one of the most challenging in Spain. The Aragonese climbers Alberto Rabadá and Ernesto Navarro climbed this route for the first time in 1962, finding an imposing climb of 750 metres on the impressive West Face of the Naranjo.

MURCIANA 78 CLIMBING ROUTEED INF. (6a). 600 metres. WEST FACE. It is one of the most beautiful climbing routes of Naranjo de Bulnes, with rock of exceptional quality. Considered a classic of the high- difficulty climbs in the Picos. All the belay points are equipped for abseiling in case of bad weather or an accident.

CLIMBING THE NARANJO WITH A GUIDE

One of the best options to access this legendary summit is to hire the services of a professional guide. Their fees include guiding and climbing equipment.

LAKES OF COVADONGA

One of the most emblematic places in the Picos de Europa are the Lakes of Covadonga, located in the Western Massif. These lakes occupy depressions made by glaciers that modelled these mountains more than 25 000 years ago.

The deepest lake is Lake Enol with a depth of 25 metres, whilst Lake Ercina is only 2 metres deep. This is the main wetland of the Park, and is home to a rich variety of breeding aquatic birds. Lake Bricial is a bit harder to see, since it only appears during melting seasons or with heavy rainfalls. Since 1983, this area has been one of the key stages of the Cycling Tour of Spain, which has made this place even more popular.

SUGGESTED VISIT
IN THE LAKES OF COVADONGA

A stone footpath, adapted and signposted by the National Park, makes it easier to visit this area. The path begins at the end of the upper section of the Buferrera parking. We suggest you visit the Pedro Pidal Visitor Centre first. This free exhibit covers topics from the Picos (Pedro Pidal, display of the ecosystems of the National Park, scale models and ethnography, audiovisual room, exhibition about the National Parks Network, shop with publications, shepherd’s hut). If you go up the stairs that are outside the building, there is a path on your left that takes you to the Príncipe Viewpoint, which has views to the karstic depressions of Vega de Comeya.

Coming back on the same track, you get to the arboretum, with the most representative tree species of the National Park. You will also find a building with a big scale model of the Picos, where an audiovisual display is projected. The tour continues through a small tunnel to cross the uncovered mine of Buferrera, with explanatory material of the mining activity. The path goes to Vega de La Tiese, close to Lake Ercina. After walking up some stairs to ascend the glacial moraine of La Picota, the Entrelagos Viewpoint shows a magnificent view of the two lakes and its surroundings. The stone footpath then descends to Lake Enol, and goes back to the starting point in the Buferrera parking. This recommended route is 3 km long, and can be walked in 1 hour.

REGULATION OF THE ACCESS TO THE LAKES
AND COVADONGA

To access the Lakes, take the road CO-4 from Covadonga that ascends 800 metres in 12 kilometres.

The massive number of visitors, especially in high season, has made it necessary to regulate the access to private vehicles. On certain dates, you can only enter this area of the National Park using bus and taxi services of the villages within the area.

The “Plan to Access the Lakes and Covadonga” regulates the entrance of vehicles during Easter, summer, and national bank holidays. Private vehicles can access with no restrictions during the rest of the year. However, if the road to the Lakes becomes very busy, the National Park Administration will impose the traffic regulations at other times.

When traffic regulations take place, the road between Covadonga and the Lakes is closed to private vehicles from 8:30 to 20:00 (April to October) and from 8:30 to 19:00 (November and December).

The access to the Lakes with private vehicles during the regulation period, when the road is not closed, depends on the number of parking spaces available in the Buferrera parking. The road might be closed to traffic before the scheduled time if this parking is full.

People who certify they are disabled have free access in private vehicles. Buses transporting organised groups can access the protected area if they’ve previously requested an authorization to the Transport Consortium of Asturias:

SUGGESTED VISIT
IN THE LAKES OF COVADONGA

A stone footpath, adapted and signposted by the National Park, makes it easier to visit this area. The path begins at the end of the upper section of the Buferrera parking. We suggest you visit the Pedro Pidal Visitor Centre first. This free exhibit covers topics from the Picos (Pedro Pidal, display of the ecosystems of the National Park, scale models and ethnography, audiovisual room, exhibition about the National Parks Network, shop with publications, shepherd’s hut). If you go up the stairs that are outside the building, there is a path on your left that takes you to the Príncipe Viewpoint, which has views to the karstic depressions of Vega de Comeya.

Coming back on the same track, you get to the arboretum, with the most representative tree species of the National Park. You will also find a building with a big scale model of the Picos, where an audiovisual display is projected. The tour continues through a small tunnel to cross the uncovered mine of Buferrera, with explanatory material of the mining activity. The path goes to Vega de La Tiese, close to Lake Ercina. After walking up some stairs to ascend the glacial moraine of La Picota, the Entrelagos Viewpoint shows a magnificent view of the two lakes and its surroundings. The stone footpath then descends to Lake Enol, and goes back to the starting point in the Buferrera parking. This recommended route is 3 km long, and can be walked in 1 hour.

REGULATION OF THE ACCESS TO THE LAKES
AND COVADONGA

To access the Lakes, take the road CO-4 from Covadonga that ascends 800 metres in 12 kilometres.

The massive number of visitors, especially in high season, has made it necessary to regulate the access to private vehicles. On certain dates, you can only enter this area of the National Park using bus and taxi services of the villages within the area.

The “Plan to Access the Lakes and Covadonga” regulates the entrance of vehicles during Easter, summer, and national bank holidays. Private vehicles can access with no restrictions during the rest of the year. However, if the road to the Lakes becomes very busy, the National Park Administration will impose the traffic regulations at other times.

When traffic regulations take place, the road between Covadonga and the Lakes is closed to private vehicles from 8:30 to 20:00 (April to October) and from 8:30 to 19:00 (November and December).

The access to the Lakes with private vehicles during the regulation period, when the road is not closed, depends on the number of parking spaces available in the Buferrera parking. The road might be closed to traffic before the scheduled time if this parking is full.

People who certify they are disabled have free access in private vehicles. Buses transporting organised groups can access the protected area if they’ve previously requested an authorization to the Transport Consortium of Asturias:

BULNES FUNICULAR

The Bulnes funicular is in the Asturian sector of the Picos de Europa, and links the villages of Poncebos and Bulnes, both in Cabrales. The distance covered by the funicular is 2 227 metres in a tunnel through Peña Maín.

Bulnes was famous for its isolation being only accessible by a small walking track parallel to the River Bulnes. To end this isolation and to promote rural tourism in such a secluded area, the Government of the Principado de Asturias initiated a project of a funicular railway in the 90’s that went through Peña Maín, removing the need to ascend 400 metres in elevation between Poncebos and Bulnes.

The village of Bulnes is divided in two neighbourhoods: “El Castillo” (upper Bulnes) and “La Villa” (lower Bulnes). To see the legendary Naranjo de Bulnes, you need to take a small track from La Villa, which takes you to a viewpoint after a ten-minute walk..

TICKETS

You can purchase tickets at points of sale for ALSA (bus company), phoning 902 422 242, or at the ticket office of the funicular (from 9:30 onwards).

OPENING HOURS AND DATES

High Season (2017):

From 10:00 to 20:00.

From 18 to 20 March.

From 7 to 19 April

From 29 April to 2 May.

From 1 June to 24 September.

From 12 to 15 October.

1 and 11 November.

From 2 to 10 December.

Low Season:

From 10:00 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:00.

·Rest of the year.

FREQUENCY

Every 30 minutes. From Mondays to Fridays (work days), there is a service at 8:30.

INFORMATION OF INTEREST

COVADONGA SANCTUARY

he Covadonga Sanctuary is amongst the mountains and forests of the Picos de Europa National Park. It is a Marian pilgrimage centre of great devotion for Asturians and Christians. The statue of the Virgin of Covadonga, known as La Santina in her Cave, and the Basilica of Cerro Cueto are found here. The beauty of the sanctuary amongst the Asturian mountains makes it an important place for pilgrims to visit. It is said in the stories that the famous Battle of Covadonga took place here, beginning the Reconquest of Spain led by Don Pelayo.

COVADONGA MUSEUM

It contains art pieces of great value. It is divided into ten sections where the visitor can learn about the history of the Covadonga Sanctuary, from Don Pelayo times to modern times, shown through paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, offerings, and precious-metal objects.

There are no restrictions to access Covadonga, and the Real Sitio de Covadonga provides hundreds of parking spaces (free of charge), both in the sanctuary and in the Repelao area. However, sometimes these parking areas can be full (in summer and Easter, for example). In such cases, the local government begins to control parking, and redirects traffic to secondary pay car parks.

HOW TO GET TO THE SANCTUARY

The Covadonga Sanctuary is located in the Picos de Europa National Park, in Eastern Asturias. To get to Covadonga from Cangas de Onís, capital of the municipality Covadonga belongs to, follow the AS-114 (following signs towards Panes). After 4 km, in Soto de Cangas, take the road to Picos de Europa and Covadonga, the AS-262.

There are no restrictions to access Covadonga, and the Real Sitio de Covadonga provides hundreds of parking spaces (free of charge), both in the sanctuary and in the Repelao area. However, sometimes these parking areas can be full (in summer and Easter, for example). In such cases, the local government begins to control parking, and redirects traffic to secondary pay car parks.

HOW TO GET TO THE SANCTUARY

The Covadonga Sanctuary is located in the Picos de Europa National Park, in Eastern Asturias. To get to Covadonga from Cangas de Onís, capital of the municipality Covadonga belongs to, follow the AS-114 (following signs towards Panes). After 4 km, in Soto de Cangas, take the road to Picos de Europa and Covadonga, the AS-262.

OFFICES AND VISITOR CENTRES OF THE PENP

ADMINISTRATION OFFICES OF THE NATIONAL PARK

Administration Office and Information Centre Casa Dago

Avenida Covadonga, 4333550 Cangas de Onís, ASTURIAS.

OPENING HOURS

Easter and bank holidays: Mondays to Fridays from 8:00 to 15:00.

Work days, rest of the year: From 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00.

CONTACT

administracioncangas1@pnpeu.es

administracioncangas2@pnpeu.es

gpicos@pnpeu.es

985 848614

985 848699

Central Office of the Picos de Europa National Park

Arquitecto Reguera, 13.33004 Oviedo, ASTURIAS.

CONTACT

picos@pnpeu.es

985 241 412

985 273 945

Administration Office and Information Centre Casa Dago

Avenida Covadonga, 4333550 Cangas de Onís, ASTURIAS.

OPENING HOURS

Easter and bank holidays: Mondays to Fridays from 8:00 to 15:00.

Work days, rest of the year: From 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00.

CONTACT

administracioncangas1@pnpeu.es

administracioncangas2@pnpeu.es

gpicos@pnpeu.es

985 848614

985 848699

Central Office of the Picos de Europa National Park

Arquitecto Reguera, 13.33004 Oviedo, ASTURIAS.

CONTACT

picos@pnpeu.es

985 241 412

985 273 945

VISITOR CENTRES

Pedro Pidal Visitor Centre

Buferrera, Lagos de Covadonga,Cangas de Onís, ASTURIAS.

SERVICES

Audiovisual display, slideshow.

Permanent exhibitions.

Sale of publications.

Audiovisual-scale model of the National Park.

OPENING HOURS

Open in Easter.

Summer (17 June – 16 October) and National Bank Holidays:
From 10:00 to 18:00.

CONTACT

gpicos@pnpeu.es

985 848 614

Sotama Visitor Centre and Administration Office

Avda. Luis Cuevas, 2-A, Tama,39584 Cillórigo de Liébana, CANTABRIA

SERVICES

Customer service.

Audiovisual display.

Permanent exhibitions.

Sale of publications.

Outside, there is a recreation area and an arboretum with native species.

OPENING HOURS

Open all year round (except 24, 25, 31 December and 1, 6 January):

From 9:00 to 18:00 (last entry to see the exhibition at 17:30).

CONTACT

ocantabria@pnpeu.es

gcantabria@pnpeu.es

Centro 942 730 555

Guías de Cantabria: 942 738 109

942 738 106

Exhibition in the National Park Office in Posada de Valdeón

El Ferial,24915 Posada de Valdeón, LEÓN

SERVICES

Customer service.

Small exhibition about the origins of the Picos de Europa, its flora, and its fauna.

Audiovisual display.

Projection room.

OPENING HOURS

Summer (1 July – 30 September):
Work days from 8:00 to 15:00.
Weekends from 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:30.

Easter and Public Holidays:
From 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:30.

Constitution Bank Holidays:
From 9:00 to 16:30.

Rest of the Year:
Work days from 8:00 to 15:00.

CONTACT

ovaldeon1@pnpeu.es

ovaldeon2@pnpeu.es

gvaldeon@pnpeu.es

987 740 549

987 740 587

Centro de Visitantes Pedro Pidal

Buferrera, Lagos de Covadonga,Cangas de Onís, ASTURIAS.

SERVICES

Audiovisual display, slideshow..

Permanent exhibitions.

Venta de publicaciones.

Maqueta-audiovisual del Parque Nacional.

OPENING HOURS

Open in Easter.

Summer (17 June – 16 October) and National Bank Holidays:
From 10:00 to 18:00.

CONTACT

gpicos@pnpeu.es

985 848 614

Sotama Visitor Centre and Administration Office

Avda. Luis Cuevas, 2-A, Tama,39584 Cillórigo de Liébana, CANTABRIA

SERVICES

Customer service.

Audiovisual display.

Permanent exhibitions.

Sale of publications.

Outside, there is a recreation area and an arboretum with native species.

OPENING HOURS

Open all year round (except 24, 25, 31 December and 1, 6 January):

From 9:00 to 18:00 (last entry to see the exhibition at 17:30).

CONTACT

ocantabria@pnpeu.es

gcantabria@pnpeu.es

Centro 942 730 555

Guías de Cantabria: 942 738 109

942 738 106

Exhibition in the National Park Office in Posada de Valdeón

El Ferial,24915 Posada de Valdeón, LEÓN

SERVICES

Customer service.

Small exhibition about the origins of the Picos de Europa, its flora, and its fauna.

Audiovisual display.

Projection room.

OPENING HOURS

Summer (1 July – 30 September):
Work days from 8:00 to 15:00.
Weekends from 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:30.

Easter and Public Holidays:
From 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:30.

Constitution Bank Holidays:
From 9:00 to 16:30.

Rest of the Year:
Work days from 8:00 to 15:00.

CONTACT

ovaldeon1@pnpeu.es

ovaldeon2@pnpeu.es

gvaldeon@pnpeu.es

987 740 549

987 740 587

IMPORTANT

The Visitor Centre of the National Park in Posada de Valdeón and the Interpretation Centre of Oseja de Sajambre are currently being built on the Leonese side of the Park. The plan is to open it to the public by the end of 2017, along with its corresponding installations for public use (interpretative adequacy and exhibitions).

INFORMATION POINTS

ASTURIAS

BuferreraLakes of Covadonga (Cangas de Onís)

Poncebos
Cares Gorge (Cabrales)

Poncebos
Funicular (Cabrales).

Occasionally closed.

Santillán (T.M. Amieva).

Temporarily out of service.

Panes (T.M. Peñamellera Baja).

Temporarily out of service.

CANTABRIA

Fuente Dé (Camaleño)

Parking “La Dehesa”.

La Hermida (T.M. Peñarrubia)

In the village La Hermida, in the gorge of the same name

LEÓN

Teja Oscura – Chorco de los Lobos (T.M. Posada de Valdeón)

On the road from Cordiñanes to Caín.

Oseja de Sajambre (T.M. Oseja de Sajambre)

Temporarily out of service.

Panes (T.M. Peñamellera Baja).

In Oseja de Sajambre, on the N-625.

ASTURIAS

Buferrera
Lakes of Covadonga (Cangas de Onís)

Poncebos
Cares Gorge (Cabrales)

Poncebos
Funicular (Cabrales).

Occasionally closed.

Santillán (Amieva).

Temporarily out of service.

Panes (Peñamellera Baja).

Temporarily out of service.

CANTABRIA

Fuente Dé (Camaleño)

Parking “La Dehesa”.

La Hermida (T.M. Peñarrubia)

In the village La Hermida, in the gorge of the same name

LEÓN

Teja Oscura – Chorco de los Lobos (T.M. Posada de Valdeón)

On the road from Cordiñanes to Caín.

Oseja de Sajambre (T.M. Oseja de Sajambre)

Temporarily out of service.

Panes (T.M. Peñamellera Baja).

In Oseja de Sajambre, on the N-625.

MIRADORES Y ÁREAS RECREATIVAS

VIEWPOINTS IN THE NATIONAL PARK

ASTURIAS

Canónigos Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):On the road to the Lakes, km 1.5. Views to the Basilica of Covadonga and its surroundings.

Reina Viewpoint (Cangas de Onís):On the road to the Lakes, km 6.5. Views to villages of the municipalities of Onís and Cangas de Onís, the Cuera mountains, and even the Cantabrian Sea on very clear days. It has information notice boards.

Rey Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):At the end of the track that goes round Vega de Enol. Views to the Pome Beech Forest. It has information notice boards.

Príncipe Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):In the Lakes, next to Buferrera. Views to Vega de Comeya. It has information notice boards.

Entrelagos Viewpoint (T.M. Cangas de Onís):Located on the glacial moraine that separates the lakes Enol and Ercina, in the visitor’s circuit between both lakes and the Pedro Pidal Visitor Centre. Spectacular view to the Lakes and Peña Santa de Enol.

Ordiales Viewpoint
(T.M. de Amieva):At the end of the route to Ordiales, after a 3.5-hour walk from the Lakes. Views to the Angón valley and the Cantabrian mountains. Pedro Pidal’s grave is here. He was Marquis of Villaviciosa and promoter of the Covadonga Mountain National Park.

Urriellu Viewpoint
(T.M. de Cabrales):Located close to the village of Bulnes, in Cabrales, reached by following the route that goes to Collado de Pandébano. Views of Naranjo de Bulnes or “Picu Urriellu”.

Camarmeña Viewpoint
(T.M. de Cabrales):In the village of Camarmeña, above Poncebos. Views to Naranjo de Bulnes or “Picu Urriellu”.

Chorco de Amieva Viewpoint
(T.M. de Amieva):Located outside the National Park, although very near it, it is found at the end of a footpath that starts from the road that, from San Román, goes to Collado de Angón or to Amieva. It has an information notice board.

Pozo de la Oración Viewpoint
(T.M. de Cabrales):Located outside the National Park, near the village of Poo de Cabrales and on the road AS-114 (Cangas de Onís-Panes). Views to Naranjo de Bulnes or “Picu Urriellu”.

San Esteban Viewpoint
(T.M. de Peñamellera Baja):Located on the foothills of the Eastern Massif next to the village of San Estéban de Cuñaba, with views to the valley of the River Rumenes.

Oceño Viewpoint
(T.M. de Peñamellera Alta):By the road that begins on the AS-114 (Cangas de Onís to Panes), and goes from Mildón to Oceño. Great views dominated by the valley and the River Cares once it has taken W-E direction.

“Pedro Udaondo” Viewpoint
(T.M. Cabrales):In the village of Asiego (Cabrales) that you can reach on a local road from Arenas de Cabrales. Wonderful views to Naranjo de Bulnes or “Picu Urriellu”.

CANTABRIA

Cable Viewpoint
(Camaleño): In the top station of the cable car, 800 m from Fuente Dé. Views to the upper basin of the River Deva and nearby beech forests.

Llesba Viewpoint
(Camaleño): At the pass of San Glorio (road N-621) there’s a track that goes to Collado de Llesba. Views to the Eastern Massif of the Picos. The sculpture of the bear is a piece from the Cantabrian artist Jesús Otero Oreña.

Balcón de Pilatos Viewpoint
(Tresviso): About half-way along the vertiginous trail of Urdón, this viewpoint offers outstanding views over the gorge of the River Urdón and the foothills of the Eastern Massif that lead to Ándara.

Valle de Sobra Viewpoint
(Tresviso): On the road that goes from Poncebos to the Cantabrian village of Tresviso, with unique views to the Eastern Massif and other outstanding peaks from the Central Massif, as well as to the pretty valley of Sobra, with its traditional winter pastures.

Santo Toribio Viewpoint
(Camaleño): Located outside the National Park, in the surroundings of the Santo Toribio de Liébana Monastery. Views to the South Face of the Eastern Massif of the Picos.

Piedrasluengas Viewpoint
(La Pernía, Palencia) Next to the Cabezón de Liébana one. Located outside the National Park, in the pass of the same name, on the road that goes from Cervera de Pisuerga (Palencia) to Ojedo and Potes (CL-627 and CA-184). Great view to the Western Massif of the Picos. There is an information notice board.

LEÓN

Piedrashitas Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): There’s a track that starts at the pass of Panderruedas and takes you to the viewpoint. Spectacular views of the Valdeón valley and of the Western and Central Massifs of the Picos de Europa. The sculpture “Structure of the Wind” is by the artist José Luis Alonso Coomonte (from Benavente).

Valdeón Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): Between Panderruedas and Posada de Valdeón, beside the road. Views to the Valdeón valley and the Central Massif.

Tombo Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): On the road that goes from Cordiñanes to Caín. Views to the summits of the Central Massif and to the valley of the River Cares. The sculpture of the chamois and the information panel that shows the horizon seen from the viewpoint, are both by the artist José Luis Alonso Coomonte.

Pandetrave Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): At the top of the pass of Pandetrave. Views to the Central Massif and to the part of the Valdeón valley that surrounds Santa Marina de Valdeón. There is an information notice board.

Vallejo de la Fragua Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): On the section of the N-625 that goes from Oseja de Sajambre to the pass of Pontón and is very near Oseja. This viewpoint gives impressive views over the valley of the River Sella.

Vista Alegre Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): Road from Oseja de Sajambre to Soto de Sajambre. View of the whole valley of Sajambre and of the start of the Los Beyos Gorge.

Los Porros Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): In Sajambre next to the track that goes up to Vegabaño from Soto de Sajambre. Stunning view of the valley of Sajambre in a unique forest environment, under the shade of beech and holly trees.

Berrunde Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): On the Arcediano trail, 1 hour from Oseja, in the direction to the pass of Pontón. There is an information notice board.

ASTURIAS

Canónigos Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):On the road to the Lakes, km 1.5. Views to the Basilica of Covadonga and its surroundings.

Reina Viewpoint (Cangas de Onís):On the road to the Lakes, km 6.5. Views to villages of the municipalities of Onís and Cangas de Onís, the Cuera mountains, and even the Cantabrian Sea on very clear days. It has information notice boards.

Rey Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):At the end of the track that goes round Vega de Enol. Views to the Pome Beech Forest. It has information notice boards.

Príncipe Viewpoint
(Cangas de Onís):In the Lakes, next to Buferrera. Views to Vega de Comeya. It has information notice boards.

CANTABRIA

Cable Viewpoint
(Camaleño): In the top station of the cable car, 800 m from Fuente Dé. Views to the upper basin of the River Deva and nearby beech forests.

Llesba Viewpoint
(Camaleño): At the pass of San Glorio (road N-621) there’s a track that goes to Collado de Llesba. Views to the Eastern Massif of the Picos. The sculpture of the bear is a piece from the Cantabrian artist Jesús Otero Oreña.

Balcón de Pilatos Viewpoint
(Tresviso): About half-way along the vertiginous trail of Urdón, this viewpoint offers outstanding views over the gorge of the River Urdón and the foothills of the Eastern Massif that lead to Ándara.

Valle de Sobra Viewpoint
(Tresviso): On the road that goes from Poncebos to the Cantabrian village of Tresviso, with unique views to the Eastern Massif and other outstanding peaks from the Central Massif, as well as to the pretty valley of Sobra, with its traditional winter pastures.

Santo Toribio Viewpoint
(Camaleño): Located outside the National Park, in the surroundings of the Santo Toribio de Liébana Monastery. Views to the South Face of the Eastern Massif of the Picos.

Piedrasluengas Viewpoint
(La Pernía, Palencia) Next to the Cabezón de Liébana one. Located outside the National Park, in the pass of the same name, on the road that goes from Cervera de Pisuerga (Palencia) to Ojedo and Potes (CL-627 and CA-184). Great view to the Western Massif of the Picos. There is an information notice board.

LEÓN

Piedrashitas Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): There’s a track that starts at the pass of Panderruedas and takes you to the viewpoint. Spectacular views of the Valdeón valley and of the Western and Central Massifs of the Picos de Europa. The sculpture “Structure of the Wind” is by the artist José Luis Alonso Coomonte (from Benavente).

Valdeón Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): Between Panderruedas and Posada de Valdeón, beside the road. Views to the Valdeón valley and the Central Massif.

Tombo Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): On the road that goes from Cordiñanes to Caín. Views to the summits of the Central Massif and to the valley of the River Cares. The sculpture of the chamois and the information panel that shows the horizon seen from the viewpoint, are both by the artist José Luis Alonso Coomonte.

Pandetrave Viewpoint
(Posada de Valdeón): At the top of the pass of Pandetrave. Views to the Central Massif and to the part of the Valdeón valley that surrounds Santa Marina de Valdeón. There is an information notice board.

Vallejo de la Fragua Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): On the section of the N-625 that goes from Oseja de Sajambre to the pass of Pontón and is very near Oseja. This viewpoint gives impressive views over the valley of the River Sella.

Vista Alegre Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): Road from Oseja de Sajambre to Soto de Sajambre. View of the whole valley of Sajambre and of the start of the Los Beyos Gorge.

Los Porros Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): In Sajambre next to the track that goes up to Vegabaño from Soto de Sajambre. Stunning view of the valley of Sajambre in a unique forest environment, under the shade of beech and holly trees.

Berrunde Viewpoint
(Oseja de Sajambre): On the Arcediano trail, 1 hour from Oseja, in the direction to the pass of Pontón. There is an information notice board.

RECREATION AREAS IN THE NATIONAL PARK

ASTURIAS

Reina Viewpoint (Cangas de Onís):Next to the viewpoint. There are tables and an information notice board.

Buferrera
(Cangas de Onís):In the service area of Buferrera, near the Lakes of Covadonga and next to the Museum of the Mines of Buferrera. There are tables, sanitary facilities, a water trough, and an arboretum.

CANTABRIA

Sobra Valley
(Tresviso):Next to the Sobra Valley Viewpoint, on the road from Poncebos to Tresviso. It has got a water trough and benches.

Fuente Dé
(Camaleño):In parking “La Dehesa”, next to the information point of the National Park. It has got tables, a water trough, and information notice boards.

LEÓN

Panderruedas
(Posada de Valdeón):In the pass of the same name, next to the road that goes to Posada de Valdeón.

Pandetrave
(Posada de Valdeón):In the pass of the same name, next to the road that goes to the Valdeón valley that begins in Portilla de la Reina.

Vega Boyán
(Posada de Valdeón):Next to the reservoir of the same name, reached by a short track that begins just after leaving Posada de Valdeón, direction Cordiñanes and Caín. You will find an information notice board, tables, and a water trough. It is accessible for people with disabilities.

Chorco de los Lobos
(Posada de Valdeón):In the ethnographic complex and next to the information point of the National Park, in the area of Monte Corona, beside the road from Posada de Valdeón to Caín. It has got tables, a water trough, and an information notice board. It is accessible for people with disabilities.

ASTURIAS

Reina Viewpoint (Cangas de Onís):Next to the viewpoint. There are tables and an information notice board.

Buferrera
(Cangas de Onís):In the service area of Buferrera, near the Lakes of Covadonga and next to the Museum of the Mines of Buferrera. There are tables, sanitary facilities, a water trough, and an arboretum.

CANTABRIA

Sobra Valley
(Tresviso):Next to the Sobra Valley Viewpoint, on the road from Poncebos to Tresviso. It has got a water trough and benches.

Fuente Dé
(Camaleño):In parking “La Dehesa”, next to the information point of the National Park. It has got tables, a water trough, and information notice boards.

LEÓN

Panderruedas
(Posada de Valdeón):In the pass of the same name, next to the road that goes to Posada de Valdeón.

Pandetrave
(Posada de Valdeón):In the pass of the same name, next to the road that goes to the Valdeón valley that begins in Portilla de la Reina.

Vega Boyán
(Posada de Valdeón):Next to the reservoir of the same name, reached by a short track that begins just after leaving Posada de Valdeón, direction Cordiñanes and Caín. You will find an information notice board, tables, and a water trough. It is accessible for people with disabilities.

Chorco de los Lobos
(Posada de Valdeón):In the ethnographic complex and next to the information point of the National Park, in the area of Monte Corona, beside the road from Posada de Valdeón to Caín. It has got tables, a water trough, and an information notice board. It is accessible for people with disabilities.

DIRECTIONS TO THE PICOS DE EUROPA NATIONAL PARK

FROM THE SOUTH

From Madrid and the rest of Spain there are three options. Through León on the AP-66 motorway to Oviedo and then to Arriondas and Cangas de Onís (6 hours from Madrid), through León on the N-601 until Mansilla de las Mulas, where joining the N-625, you deviate towards Cistierna and Riaño. In Riaño, following the N-625 towards Cangas de Onís, to reach the valley of Valdeón (Caldevilla, Soto, Posada, Prada, Santa Marina, Cordiñanes, and Caín), taking the road to the pass of Panderruedas, before getting to the pass of Pontón. If you carry on through the pass of Pontón, you get to Oseja de Sajambre, capital of the municipality of the same name. If in Riaño you take the N-621 towards Potes, you can also get to the valley of Valdeón, taking the road in Portilla de la Reina towards the pass of Pandetrave.

FROM THE EAST

From the airport or the ferry terminal (with ferries from Great Britain or France) in Santander, take the E70 coastal motorway that heads towards the Picos de Europa from the East. To visit the Western Massif, you can access the Park through Arriondas and Cangas de Onís (Arriondas exit from the N-634; 2 hrs. from Santander airport). If you take the exit to Unquera from the motorway, you will continue on the N-621 towards Panes. In this town, you can either take the AS-114 towards Arenas de Cabrales (1.5 hrs. from Santander airport) if you want to go to the massifs from the northern side, or you can carry on to Potes on the N-621 (1.5 hrs. from Santander airport). Once in Potes, take the road to Fuente Dé if you want to go to the southern side of the Picos.

FROM THE WEST

Coming from Oviedo, Asturias airport, Portugal, or Galicia, the best choice is the E70 coastal motorway, taking the exit to Arriondas on the N-634, and in Arriondas turning South on the Cangas de Onís N-625 (1.5 hrs. from Asturias airport). There are two options to access the National Park in Cangas: towards the South (Amieva, Sajambre, and the pass of Pontón) on the N-625, or towards the North on the AS-114 to Soto de Cangas. In this village, there is a fork in the road: the AS-262 to Covadonga and the CO-IV to the lakes Enol and Ercina. To continue to Onís, Cabrales, and Peñamellera, take the AS-114. From Arenas de Cabrales, you can get to Poncebos and Tielve on the AS-264.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND THAT IN HIGH SEASON AND SOME BANK HOLIDAYS, THE ACCESS TO THE LAKES THROUGH COVADONGA IS REGULATED.

FROM THE SOUTH

From Madrid and the rest of Spain there are three options. Through León on the AP-66 motorway to Oviedo and then to Arriondas and Cangas de Onís (6 hours from Madrid), through León on the N-601 until Mansilla de las Mulas, where joining the N-625, you deviate towards Cistierna and Riaño. In Riaño, following the N-625 towards Cangas de Onís, to reach the valley of Valdeón (Caldevilla, Soto, Posada, Prada, Santa Marina, Cordiñanes, and Caín), taking the road to the pass of Panderruedas, before getting to the pass of Pontón. If you carry on through the pass of Pontón, you get to Oseja de Sajambre, capital of the municipality of the same name. If in Riaño you take the N-621 towards Potes, you can also get to the valley of Valdeón, taking the road in Portilla de la Reina towards the pass of Pandetrave.

FROM THE EAST

From the airport or the ferry terminal (with ferries from Great Britain or France) in Santander, take the E70 coastal motorway that heads towards the Picos de Europa from the East. To visit the Western Massif, you can access the Park through Arriondas and Cangas de Onís (Arriondas exit from the N-634; 2 hrs. from Santander airport). If you take the exit to Unquera from the motorway, you will continue on the N-621 towards Panes. In this town, you can either take the AS-114 towards Arenas de Cabrales (1.5 hrs. from Santander airport) if you want to go to the massifs from the northern side, or you can carry on to Potes on the N-621 (1.5 hrs. from Santander airport). Once in Potes, take the road to Fuente Dé if you want to go to the southern side of the Picos.

FROM THE WEST

Coming from Oviedo, Asturias airport, Portugal, or Galicia, the best choice is the E70 coastal motorway, taking the exit to Arriondas on the N-634, and in Arriondas turning South on the Cangas de Onís N-625 (1.5 hrs. from Asturias airport). There are two options to access the National Park in Cangas: towards the South (Amieva, Sajambre, and the pass of Pontón) on the N-625, or towards the North on the AS-114 to Soto de Cangas. In this village, there is a fork in the road: the AS-262 to Covadonga and the CO-IV to the lakes Enol and Ercina. To continue to Onís, Cabrales, and Peñamellera, take the AS-114. From Arenas de Cabrales, you can get to Poncebos and Tielve on the AS-264.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND THAT IN HIGH SEASON AND SOME BANK HOLIDAYS, THE ACCESS TO THE LAKES THROUGH COVADONGA IS REGULATED.